Our grass farm is a relatively new operation. Our first calves ever (as a result of the introduction of our own bull--some of our initial herd had already been impregnated) started dropping in August and it's been a delight to watch them romp and frolic on the property.When you begin an operation like this, a program designed to foster the land and allow nature to do it's job, you get to see some pretty interesting things. Frolicking cattle, cows bellering greetings at your arrival (never failing to make me think of what a brontosauraus might have sounded like), animals big enough to stomp you into the earth wanting nothing more than to nudge gently against you in hopes of a treat.
The photo above was taken from my car as I left the farm the day before yesterday. I'd been out photographing the Monarch Migration on our creek. I was beside myself with joy to see this bird at such ease, walking on the ground, surrounded by five or six of our cattle. As I got closer to the bird it leapt on to the back of this beeve for protection.
I've been here since 1989 and have been fishing, hunting, and photographing on Pinto Farm all that time. We only began our cattle operation in 2008. This egret is something I've never seen before on our property. It's not just any egret, it's a Cattle Egret! It was so elegant. I had no idea what it was, I thought at first it must be some kind of heron but then it came to me that it must be an egret of some sort. My friend Jean confirmed this for me; long time rancher, bird watcher, and observer of nature that she is.
If I correctly understood what I read about cattle egrets, then 59% of the average cattle egret's diet is horseflies. They also eat grasshoppers, crickets, and a few other unwanted farm pests. One of the fantastic things about pasture raised animals and a grass farm designed to mimic nature is that it attracts birds of all types. Birds are nature's pest control. I'll eagerly be watching for more of these magnificent birds on the property. If I were a cow, egrets would be my best friends. Imagine having a companion follow you everywhere you go, perhaps by riding on your back or shoulders, and keeping your hide nearly free of annoying pests! And all without chemicals! Ahhh, nature at it's best.
Excellent picture! God's design for life is perfect. I love to see nature the way it was intended. Good shot!
Scott
It was taken through my car window but I'm glad you appreciate it for what it is, admiration for nature and its systems and cycles. Thank you Scott!